SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the practice of improving a website's visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs) like Google. For businesses, SEO is essential for several reasons: increased visibility, organic traffic, improved brand authority, cost-effective marketing, enhanced user experience, and local SEO benefits. In essence, SEO is a powerful tool that can help businesses increase their online visibility, attract more customers, and improve their overall brand reputation. By investing in SEO, businesses can gain a competitive edge in the digital marketplace.